Corfu
Venetian old town, olive groves, and turquoise coves on the greenest of the Greek islands.
Overview
Corfu's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by centuries of Venetian, French, and British rule — narrow marble-paved lanes, a French-style arcade, and two fortresses guarding the harbour. Beyond the town, the island is thick with olive groves and cypress trees, with some of the most photographed coves in Greece along the northwest coast.
Quick Facts
- Currency
- Euro (€)
- Language
- Greek (English widely spoken)
- Climate
- Mediterranean. Hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Best May–October.
- Best Months
- May–June, September–October
- Pier to Town
- The port sits about a 15–20 min walk from the Old Town and Old Fortress, or a quick €5–8 taxi.
DIY Port Logistics: "From Pier to Town"
The first 30 minutes can make or break your port day. Use this quick plan to exit the terminal fast and avoid overpriced transport mistakes.
- Is it walkable?
- Yes for the Old Town - about 15-20 minutes from the port. Beaches like Paleokastritsa require transport.
- Water taxi or cheap local shuttle?
- No water taxi; local KTEL buses or a rental car/ATV from near the port are the practical options for beach runs.
- Expected taxi rate to the main beach
- Expect about €35-45 each way by taxi to Paleokastritsa; agree the fare before departure.
- Are ride-shares legally permitted at the pier?
- Ride-share is not reliably available on Corfu; licensed taxis and rental vehicles are the norm.
Top Beaches
Paleokastritsa
Corfu's most famous coastline — turquoise coves backed by cliffs, about 25 minutes from the port by car.
Glyfada Beach
A long sandy stretch on the west coast with tavernas and sunbeds.
Canal d'Amour (Sidari)
Sandstone cliffs and lagoon-like water at the north of the island.
Must Eat
Pastitsada
Corfu's signature dish — beef or rooster in a thick tomato sauce over pasta, Venetian-influenced.
Sofrito
Veal slow-cooked in garlic and white wine, another Venetian-era classic.
Bourdeto
A spicy fish stew unique to the island, worth seeking out in the Old Town.
💡 DIY Tip
Rent a car or ATV near the port for the day and drive the coastal road to Paleokastritsa — a scenic 30–45 minute drive that leaves you in full control of your beach time. The Old Town itself needs no transport at all.
🚢 Ship Excursion Verdict
Skip it for the Old Town — it's fully walkable from the pier. Worth booking (or hiring a private taxi) for Paleokastritsa or the Achilleion Palace if you don't want to arrange a rental car.